Tag: Bishop David Bard
Plan carefully for in-person gatherings
Vaccinations have begun but a recent surge in coronavirus infections in Michigan signals a need to be cautious as plans are made to resume in-person gatherings.
A look back at 2020
This month-by-month review of 2020 in The Michigan Conference reports many challenges of COVID-19. It also tells the story of how God’s people met those challenges with determination and grace.
Bishop calls for prayer
“There will be time for analysis and thoughtful debate later,” said Bishop David Bard. “Right now … what is needed is prayer.”
Maturity of mind and heart
How do we grow in Christian maturity? Bishop Bard notes that growth is difficult in the social media age. He encourages intellectual curiosity, complex thinking, and a generous spirit.
Clergy invited to Come to the Well
“Come to the Well” is a morning gathering for renewal open to all Michigan Conference clergy. Join Bishop Bard and others online on January 12, 9:30-11:30 am.
Move over COVID, Christmas is coming!
Christmas will be different this year for churches, individuals, and families. While some traditions must be put on hold, new activities are telling and sharing the story of Jesus’ birth.
Bishop Bard on the road again
Because of the pandemic, the North Central Jurisdictional Conference was not held in July 2020. An interim plan for episcopal leadership was created. Bishop Bard will now serve in both Michigan and Minnesota.
Salvaging Christmas amid coronavirus
After a nine-month struggle to do ministry in a pandemic, pastors use creativity and flexibility to celebrate Advent safe from the coronavirus.
Grace for a time of trauma
2020 has been marked by trauma — polarization, racial reckoning, economic hardship, denominational division, and fragility in our democracy. Bishop David Bard shares good news of God’s gift of grace.
Bishop’s Advent video offers hope
“This Advent season,” says Bishop David Bard, “we find ourselves in the wilderness, exiled from our usual practices.” The bishop offers a song about the new thing God is doing in these troubled times.